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Bob Chesney's Move to UCLA Sparks Coaching Searches at JMU and UCLA | Bobby Witt Jr.: From Rising Star to MVP Contender | Senators vs Canucks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game | NBA Injury Report and Game Predictions: Warriors vs. Jazz & Nets vs. Grizzlies | Kyle Tucker Returns to Dodgers Camp After Welcoming New Son | Alcaraz and Djokovic Shine at Indian Wells 2026 | Nolan Arenado: Near Miss with Red Sox and Chaotic Debut | World Baseball Classic 2026: Day 6 Highlights | Byron Buxton's World Baseball Classic Journey: Injury Scare and Team USA's Rising Appeal | Bob Chesney's Move to UCLA Sparks Coaching Searches at JMU and UCLA | Bobby Witt Jr.: From Rising Star to MVP Contender | Senators vs Canucks Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NHL Game | NBA Injury Report and Game Predictions: Warriors vs. Jazz & Nets vs. Grizzlies | Kyle Tucker Returns to Dodgers Camp After Welcoming New Son | Alcaraz and Djokovic Shine at Indian Wells 2026 | Nolan Arenado: Near Miss with Red Sox and Chaotic Debut | World Baseball Classic 2026: Day 6 Highlights | Byron Buxton's World Baseball Classic Journey: Injury Scare and Team USA's Rising Appeal

Sports / College Football

Bob Chesney's Move to UCLA Sparks Coaching Searches at JMU and UCLA

Bob Chesney's departure from James Madison University (JMU) to become the head coach at UCLA has triggered coaching searches for both universities. This move comes after Chesney's successful two-season stint with the Dukes.

Grading the hire: UCLA hopes JMU lightning strikes twice with Bob Chesney
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Bob Chesney's Move to UCLA Sparks Coaching Searches at JMU and UCLA Image via USA Today

Key Insights

  • Bob Chesney is leaving JMU to become the head coach at UCLA, with a five-year deal.
  • JMU is now actively searching for a replacement, with names like Billy Napier, Kevin Cahill, and internal candidates such as Colin Hitschler being considered.
  • Chesney's success at JMU, including an 11-1 record this season, made him a sought-after candidate.
  • The timing of the announcement, shortly after Chesney's press conference, added to the drama.
  • JMU Athletic Director Matt Roan faces a significant hiring decision, with pressure to maintain the program's success. Why this matters: The coaching changes at both UCLA and JMU will significantly impact the trajectory of their football programs. For JMU, maintaining their current level of success will depend heavily on the quality of their next head coach.

In-Depth Analysis

Following Curt Cignetti's departure in 2023, JMU once again finds itself in need of a new head coach. Several candidates have emerged as potential replacements for Chesney:

  • **Billy Napier:** Former Florida coach with a strong track record in the Sun Belt.
  • **Kevin Cahill:** Lehigh head coach with a successful season.
  • **Colin Hitschler:** JMU's defensive coordinator, offering internal continuity.
  • **Bryant Haines:** Indiana's defensive coordinator, previously at JMU.
  • **Corey Hetherman:** Miami's defensive coordinator, with an offensive background.
  • **DeLane Fitzgerald:** Southern Utah Head Coach and JMU alum.
  • **Jerry Mack:** Kennesaw State Head Coach, with experience in the Group of Five.
  • **Mike Jacobs:** Mercer Head Coach, with success at multiple Division II schools.
  • **Joe Harasymiak:** UMass Head Coach, rumored to have been a candidate last time.
  • **Drew Cronic:** Navy Offensive Coordinator, with a strong track record at lower levels.
  • **Cris Reisert:** Gardner-Webb Head Coach, placed there by the same search firm that hired Chesney.
  • **Joel Taylor:** West Georgia Head Coach, guiding the Wolves through their transition to FCS.
  • **Chennis Berry:** South Carolina State Head Coach, with undefeated conference records at the Division II level.
  • **Ryan Beard:** Missouri State Head Coach, leading the Bears into the FBS.

The search for Chesney's replacement is a critical moment for JMU, as they aim to sustain their football program's momentum. Similarly, UCLA hopes Chesney can bring stability and success to their program.

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FAQ

- **Q: Why did Bob Chesney leave JMU for UCLA?

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- **Q: Who are the potential replacements for Chesney at JMU?

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- **Q: What challenges does JMU face in finding a new coach?

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Takeaways

  • The departure of Bob Chesney marks a significant transition for both JMU and UCLA football programs. For JMU fans, this means bracing for a coaching search and hoping the new hire can continue the team's winning trajectory. For UCLA, it signals a fresh start with a coach known for his winning record. Key actions to consider: Stay informed about the coaching search, follow the performance of both teams under their new leadership, and engage in discussions about the future of these programs.

Discussion

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Sources

Disclaimer

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